Carib Scope

分类： politics

  • Syria welcomes final lifting of US sanctions

    Syria welcomes final lifting of US sanctions

    The Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has formally welcomed recent United States decisions to ease economic sanctions, characterizing the move as a pivotal development for the nation’s future. In an official statement released Wednesday, the Ministry described the policy shift as a critical measure that will substantially reduce humanitarian pressures on Syrian civilians and establish foundations for economic recovery and long-term stability.

    Damascus extended diplomatic gratitude toward the United States government, while simultaneously acknowledging supportive Arab nations and international partners. The statement specifically recognized these countries’ diplomatic efforts in advocating for sanctions relief, noting their contributions to regional security objectives and respect for Syrian sovereignty.

    Furthermore, the Foreign Ministry paid tribute to Syrian citizens both domestically and within the diaspora community for their resilience in defending national dignity. Their persistent advocacy in international forums was credited with highlighting humanitarian needs and bringing legitimate grievances to global attention.

    The government framed the sanctions easing as an inaugural step toward large-scale reconstruction and economic development. Syrian authorities issued a renewed call for national unity, urging all expatriates and domestic citizens to collaborate in rebuilding efforts.

    Concurrently, Damascus invited investment from allied nations and encouraged Syrian business leaders to evaluate emerging opportunities within the reconstruction landscape. The statement positioned current developments as creating favorable conditions for international partnerships and economic revitalization.

  • Chilean lawmakers slam granting president power to dissolve Congress

    Chilean lawmakers slam granting president power to dissolve Congress

    Chile’s political landscape has been plunged into turmoil following the introduction of controversial legislation that opponents claim threatens the nation’s democratic foundations. The proposed bill, put forward by independent lawmaker Gaspar Rivas—a former member of the conservative People’s Party—would grant the president unprecedented authority to dissolve Parliament under specific circumstances.

    The legislation stipulates that if Parliament either rejects a presidential message or introduces modifications that substantially alter its core intent, the president would obtain the power to dissolve the legislative body. Following such dissolution, the president would be authorized to govern exclusively by decree with the force of law for a period of up to six months, effectively bypassing traditional legislative oversight.

    This proposal has triggered immediate and widespread condemnation across Chile’s political spectrum. Legislator Lorena Fries of the left-leaning Broad Front (Frente Amplio-FA) characterized the initiative as marking ‘the beginning of the erosion of democracy and the Rule of Law,’ warning that it opens ‘a dangerous path’ by undermining essential checks and balances between governmental branches.

    Fries emphasized that the proposal fundamentally disrupts one of the foundational pillars of Chile’s political system—the existence of three independent branches of government with mutual controls. Her concerns were echoed by fellow FA lawmaker Emilia Schneider, who declared the initiative ‘extremely serious’ and cautioned that its approval ‘would imply a great deterioration for democracy’ that Chile neither needs nor deserves.

    The legislation has generated unusual unity in opposition, drawing criticism from political parties representing diverse ideological positions who share concerns about the potential concentration of executive power and the erosion of democratic safeguards.

  • Syria denounces Israeli violations before the UN

    Syria denounces Israeli violations before the UN

    During a dedicated United Nations Security Council session reviewing the Syria-Lebanon mission report, Syrian representative Alabi delivered a sharp condemnation of Israel’s ongoing military activities. The diplomat asserted that while Damascus consistently adheres to international law and Security Council resolutions, Israel systematically violates these established norms, thereby destabilizing regional peace efforts.

    Alabi highlighted the critical need for Syrian security forces to maintain a presence along the Israeli border to reinforce sovereign control. He pointed to significant improvements in Syria’s domestic security situation, noting that over three million refugees and internally displaced persons have returned to their homes since the fall of the previous government structure in December 2014.

    The historical context of water resource control dates to 1967 when Israel occupied the Golan Heights, a strategically vital plateau containing substantial freshwater reserves in southern Syria. From late 2014 onward, Tel Aviv has substantially escalated military operations within Syrian territory under the declared objective of countering Iranian influence and allied militia presence—a campaign formally initiated in 2018.

    The Syrian delegation’s statement contrasts Israel’s assertive military posture with what it characterizes as Damascus’s compliance with international legal frameworks, creating a diplomatic confrontation at the highest level of global security discourse.

  • Caricom urges quick resolution to visa issue with United States

    Caricom urges quick resolution to visa issue with United States

    GEORGETOWN, Guyana—Heads of Government from the Caribbean Community (Caricom) have formally expressed deep concern regarding a recent United States proclamation imposing partial entry restrictions on nationals from Antigua and Barbuda and the Commonwealth of Dominica. The Bureau of the Conference of Caricom Heads of Government, which includes the prime ministers of Barbados, Grenada, and Jamaica, issued a statement late Friday highlighting the disruptive potential of the policy on legitimate travel, regional economic stability, and longstanding people-to-people exchanges.

    While acknowledging the sovereign right of any nation to regulate its borders, the Bureau emphasized its dismay that the significant decision was enacted unilaterally without prior diplomatic consultation. The leaders pointed to the particular vulnerability of small island states, where such policies can disproportionately impact social well-being and economic vitality.

    The US policy, enacted via an executive order, specifically suspends entry for immigrants and nonimmigrants on B-1, B-2, B-1/B-2, F, M, and J visas from these nations. The justification centers on concerns over Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs, which allow foreign investors to obtain citizenship through financial contributions without mandatory residency. US authorities argue these programs present significant security challenges, potentially enabling individuals to circumvent existing travel restrictions or conceal their identities and assets.

    In a positive development following the Caricom statement, both affected nations announced that Washington had agreed to temporarily suspend the policy’s implementation. Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to the US confirmed that all existing visas for its nationals would remain valid and not be revoked. Future visa applications submitted after January 1, 2026, will be subject to new, yet-to-be-finalized arrangements focused on enhancing biometric data collection to ensure compatibility with US systems.

    Caricom leaders have called for urgent engagement with US officials to clarify the proclamation’s details and address outstanding concerns, reaffirming their commitment to a partnership built on mutual respect and the rule of law.

  • Senator praises Gov’t for ‘largest crime management strategy ever’

    Senator praises Gov’t for ‘largest crime management strategy ever’

    Jamaica’s governing administration has implemented what it describes as one of the most comprehensive crime management initiatives ever witnessed in the Western Hemisphere, resulting in unprecedented reductions in violent crimes. Government Senator Christian Tavares-Finson revealed Friday that strategic investments exceeding $87 billion in national security since 2016 have driven a remarkable 43.3% decrease in murders compared to previous years.

    The transformative security blueprint, developed by the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) Administration, represents a fundamental restructuring of the nation’s approach to law enforcement. Senator Tavares-Finson emphasized that while political opponents repeatedly demanded public disclosure of crime prevention strategies, the government had been systematically executing a multi-faceted plan focusing on three critical domains: personnel expansion, technological modernization, and infrastructure enhancement.

    Human capital development has been paramount to the strategy’s success. The Jamaica Constabulary Force has grown from under 11,000 officers to more than 14,000, with approximately 6,000 recruits trained even during the COVID-19 pandemic. This substantial workforce increase has significantly improved police visibility, community engagement capabilities, and rapid response effectiveness across all parishes.

    Technological advancement has equally been a cornerstone of the security overhaul. In 2025 alone, the government deployed over $650 million worth of cutting-edge equipment including portable data radios, hand-held devices, and mobile printers to police personnel nationwide. The JamaicaEye CCTV network expansion, vehicle fleet modernization, and digital transformation of station records have revolutionized information sharing and operational coordination.

    The infrastructure revitalization program has seen numerous police stations constructed or refurbished, creating professional environments that enhance officer morale and community trust. These physical improvements complement the technological and personnel investments, forming an integrated ecosystem of crime prevention.

    The results speak unequivocally: Jamaica is projected to record fewer than 700 murders in 2025—the first time this threshold has been breached in three decades. This represents a dramatic decline from the period when annual murders exceeded 1,000. Senator Abka Fitz-Henley, while acknowledging that any murder remains unacceptable, characterized these developments as a monumental step toward establishing lasting public safety.

    Government officials specifically commended Police Commissioner Dr. Kevin Blake, security personnel, and National Security Minister Dr. Horace Chang for their pivotal roles in achieving these historic crime reduction milestones through coordinated intelligence-led operations and sustained strategic investment.

  • Griffith defends US, slams Venezuela:‘Some people love Caracas more than Maracas’

    Griffith defends US, slams Venezuela:‘Some people love Caracas more than Maracas’

    In a striking intervention into regional geopolitics, former Trinidad and Tobago Police Commissioner Gary Griffith has issued a forceful call for national defense strengthening while offering a robust defense of United States positioning in escalating tensions with Venezuela.

    The retired official, who previously served as both National Security Minister and security advisor, delivered his assessment through a December 19th Facebook video address. Griffith framed the current situation as one where Venezuela, unable to directly confront the United States, is instead targeting smaller neighboring nations like Trinidad and Tobago through intimidation tactics.

    ‘Let’s be unequivocal: Trinidad and Tobago has not threatened Venezuela. The United States has,’ stated Griffith, drawing an analogy to boxing weight classes. ‘This represents the geopolitical equivalent of a heavyweight boxer striking a middleweight, and that middleweight, too intimidated to respond to the heavyweight, subsequently turns to threaten a lightweight who never attacked him.’

    Griffith systematically addressed several claims advanced by Venezuelan officials, including allegations that Trinidad serves as a operational base for destabilizing Venezuela, facilitates U.S. military activities, and participated in the seizure of a Venezuelan oil tanker. He contextualized these developments within historical patterns, noting that territorial claims frequently precede concrete actions.

    The former security chief referenced Venezuela’s previous declaration of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar as persona non grata and termination of bilateral gas agreements as evidence of escalating tensions. He characterized Venezuela’s recent warning to Trinidad regarding potential U.S. actions as ‘perhaps the most reckless statement yet.’

    Griffith advocated for immediate high-level diplomatic engagement with the United States explicitly focused on safeguarding Trinidad’s security interests. His recommendations encompassed substantial military enhancements including helicopter acquisitions for the Air Guard, armed and surveillance drone capabilities, and modernization of Coast Guard vessels allegedly neglected by previous administrations.

    The proposed defense package additionally includes surface-to-air missile systems, establishment of a national operational war room, and support for expanded defense force recruitment. Griffith emphasized the necessity of strategic planning to manage illegal immigration flows while warning that delayed action could prove catastrophic.

    He concluded with an urgent appeal for national unity, asserting that without United States support, Trinidad would face severe limitations in defending itself against potential aggression.

  • PM: Not one cent of State $$ spent on celebrations

    PM: Not one cent of State $$ spent on celebrations

    Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has categorically refuted allegations that government funds were utilized to finance her political party’s holiday festivities. The United National Congress (UNC) leader addressed these claims during the party’s Christmas Supper event held at the Diplomatic Centre in St. Ann’s on December 18.

    In her definitive statement to attendees, Persad-Bissessar declared, ‘Not one cent of government money has been expended on this Christmas Supper.’ She further challenged critics who accused her administration of extravagant spending and insensitivity toward ordinary citizens amid ongoing economic challenges.

    The Prime Minister elaborated on the funding mechanism, revealing that proceeds from a previous UNC fundraising dinner in Couva on December 13 directly financed the current event. ‘Every attendee who purchased tickets for that occasion essentially funded tonight’s gathering through their contributions,’ she explained, emphasizing the self-sustaining nature of the party’s celebrations.

    Addressing concerns about perceived neglect since the UNC’s electoral victory on April 28, Persad-Bissessar offered a public apology while defending her government’s intensive workload. ‘The work was intense and the time was so short,’ she acknowledged before assuring citizens, ‘We will never ever forget you.’ The remarks come amid heightened scrutiny of government spending and political accountability in Trinidad and Tobago.

  • Beckles accuses PM reducing national security to ‘political theatre’

    Beckles accuses PM reducing national security to ‘political theatre’

    Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles has launched a scathing critique against Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s administration, accusing the government of transforming Trinidad and Tobago’s national security into political theater. The focal point of contention revolves around the controversial installation of a US military radar system at Tobago’s ANR Robinson International Airport and broader US-Trinidad security cooperation matters.

    In a strongly-worded video statement, Beckles emphasized that national security must transcend political maneuvering, asserting that citizens deserve transparent explanations regarding foreign military installations on sovereign territory. While acknowledging that certain security matters require confidentiality, she maintained that the current administration has created unacceptable opacity around critical defense decisions.

    The controversy erupted when Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar initially concealed, then subsequently disclosed the radar’s establishment between November 26-28. The PM justified the deployment as enhancing surveillance capabilities against narco-traffickers in territorial waters. However, Beckles revealed that the radar manufacturer contradicted this narrative, confirming the G/ATOR system is designed for aerial threat detection—not maritime surveillance—capable of identifying unmanned systems, cruise missiles, and artillery.

    Further complicating matters, Persad-Bissessar credited the radar with assisting a major drug bust involving $171 million worth of marijuana, despite the system’s technical specifications not aligning with this claimed functionality. The Prime Minister additionally suggested that criticizing US military presence might incur negative consequences for Trinidadian citizens.

    The radar deployment mirrors similar US initiatives in the region, including August approaches to Grenada regarding Maurice Bishop International Airport. Grenadian Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell has proceeded cautiously with US deadlines, contrasting with Trinidad’s apparent rapid compliance.

    Beckles condemned the government’s inconsistent explanations as undermining public trust and national sovereignty, emphasizing that proper security management requires competence and honesty rather than political performance.

  • EBC: 42 candidates file for THA elections

    EBC: 42 candidates file for THA elections

    The political landscape in Tobago is poised for a significant electoral contest as 42 candidates officially enter the race for the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) elections scheduled for January 12. According to an official disclosure from the Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC) on December 19, the nomination process concluded successfully across the island following established electoral protocols.

    Four distinct political parties have thrown their hats into the ring, setting the stage for a multifaceted competition. The People’s National Movement (PNM) and the Tobago People’s Party (TPP) have demonstrated comprehensive electoral ambitions by fielding candidates in all 15 available constituencies. Meanwhile, the Innovative Democratic Alliance has entered the fray with 11 nominated candidates, indicating strategic participation across key districts. The Unity of the People party completes the political spectrum with a single candidate nomination.

    The EBC confirmed that Nomination Day proceedings on Friday unfolded without incident, reflecting the commission’s adherence to transparent and efficient electoral management. This smooth operational execution underscores the commission’s commitment to maintaining electoral integrity throughout the pre-election period.

    This election represents a crucial political event for Tobago’s governance structure, with the outcome determining the assembly’s composition and leadership direction for the coming term. The substantial candidate participation across multiple parties suggests a robust democratic process and potentially competitive outcomes across various electoral districts.

  • Nomination Day over – Fight for Tobago truly underway

    Nomination Day over – Fight for Tobago truly underway

    The political contest for control of the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) officially commenced on Friday as candidates from the Tobago People’s Party (TPP) successfully submitted their nomination documents at the Glamorgan Multipurpose Facility.

    Chief Secretary and TPP political leader Farley Augustine expressed satisfaction with the efficient nomination process, describing it as thoroughly organized. ‘All prospective candidates underwent a preparatory session with the Election and Boundaries Commission (EBC) last week,’ Augustine revealed. ‘This preliminary review ensured all documentation was properly certified and helped alleviate any pre-filing apprehensions.’

    Augustine, who filed his nomination for the Parlatuvier/L’Anse Fourmi/Speyside electoral district, conveyed strong confidence in his party’s electoral prospects. The TPP has implemented strategic measures by pairing candidates with experienced campaign managers and election agents to optimize their electoral performance.

    Addressing voter participation expectations, Augustine projected significantly higher turnout rates compared to April’s general elections. ‘Tobagonians demonstrate greater engagement in THA elections because the assembly directly impacts their daily lives—from road maintenance and healthcare to educational services and social support systems,’ he explained.

    When questioned about governance challenges during his administration’s tenure, Augustine acknowledged difficulties but emphasized his team’s resilience. ‘We faced numerous tests of our capabilities, but our consistent stability throughout these challenges demonstrates the strength of Tobago’s leadership,’ he stated.

    The TPP’s complete candidate roster includes fifteen contenders across various electoral districts, with the critical assembly election scheduled for January 12, which will determine Tobago’s governance for the forthcoming four-year term.